[0:00] In this tutorial series, we get into the essentials of how to make you and your orchestral instrument sound and look better. In this episode, we take on the challenge of recording a solo instrument accompanied by a piano. When recording more than one instrument in a classical context, acoustic spill is unavoidable because the players are close to one another and the acoustic space might be fairly live. 

[0:35] If you use high-quality microphones, you can actually use that spill to your advantage. If you have only one microphone at your disposal, use the techniques described in the episodes about solo instruments from our tutorial series. Then, position yourself relative to the piano so that it is also picked up by this microphone and blends nicely with your solo instrument. Of course, you should also be able to communicate with each other and look good on video. 

[0:55] (Instrument plays)  

[1:57] When you use two microphones, you can create a stereo recording of your solo instrument, and these microphones will also pick up the piano sound. The piano played at full stick can be quite powerful, so check different positions of the lid and have the piano player adjust their volume to match your level. In our example, we placed the lid on a short stick and lowered the microphones slightly to compensate for the energy of the piece and to reduce excessive high frequencies. 

[3:03] (Instrument plays) 

Yes. Careful placement allows a single microphone to capture both instruments and create a balanced recording. 

Adjust microphone placement, piano lid position, and playing dynamics to achieve a natural blend between both instruments. 

Try using a shorter lid position and slightly lowering the microphones to reduce harsh high frequencies.